Dr. Jill Buban

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Age: 38

Title at work/what I do: Assistant provost for research and innovation at Post University. I am very fortunate because this position allows me to work every day in an environment that fosters innovation and growth. Within a highly collaborative team, I research and implement student-centered, forward thinking projects that impact our main campus and online student population. In addition to Post's student population, I believe many of these projects will serve as models for other higher education institutions and have far-reaching effects on the emerging adult and adult learner populations.

Town where I work: Waterbury

Town where I live: Woodbury

College I attended: Lesley University (Ph.D); University of New Hampshire (undergrad)

My passion, hobby or special talent: Spending time with my amazing daughter and husband

No. of LinkedIn connections: 237

Favorite place to network: Good News Café & The Woodshed

Favorite drink at a networking event: 337 Cabernet

How do I create connections in my professional life?

I try to present at international conferences in the fields of higher education, online learning, and adult learning every year. These conferences allow me to meet a variety of thought-leaders in these fields and connect with professionals who have similar professional interests. Additionally, I volunteer locally and attend many community benefits functions. In order to maintain contact with professionals I meet through these various avenues, I use LinkedIn.

What's been my biggest challenge professionally?

My biggest challenge has been to maintain a work-life balance. While my Post family is a tremendous source of strength and support, my family and friends provide me with opportunities that allow me to reflect and recharge.

What is the best advice I received?

The moments along the way to the finish line are often more rewarding than the finish line itself. As an educator, this rings true to me because there are so many opportunities to learn and grow as we make our way to an end product, or goal, but, if our focus is solely on the finish line, we miss out on the journey.

What do I want my legacy to be?

Whether it is as simple as impacting a student's life by providing support and encouragement or as complex as instituting an innovative approach to teaching that impacts thousands of learners, I want to have made a positive impact on the lives of students.

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